US-Iran war ending? Trump drops big statement, says war is…; Vice President JD Vance signals breakthrough
The United States appears to be stepping up diplomatic efforts with Iran, with Vice President JD Vance indicating that recent discussions have opened a more hopeful path forward despite years of strained relations.
Speaking at an event organised by Turning Point USA at the University of Georgia, Vance said the latest round of talks, held in Islamabad over the weekend, showed signs of seriousness from the Iranian side. He noted that while mistrust remains deeply rooted, there are indications that both sides may be willing to move toward a meaningful understanding.
Trump points to possible de-escalation
At the same time, US President Donald Trump hinted that tensions could soon ease significantly. In a televised conversation with Fox News anchor Maria Bartiromo, Trump remarked that the ‘Iran war is over.’ The statement was later clarified by Bartiromo, who explained that the president was suggesting the situation is nearing resolution, not that it has already ended.
The remarks have added to speculation that diplomatic channels are actively working toward a breakthrough.
Larger deal in focus, not temporary fix
According to Vance, the administration is pursuing an expansive agreement rather than a limited or short-term arrangement. He stressed that the goal is to resolve multiple long-standing concerns in a single framework.
‘He doesn’t want to make like a small deal. He wants to make the grand bargain,’ Vance said.
He outlined that Washington’s expectations include Iran stepping away from nuclear weapons ambitions, halting support for extremist activities and eventually returning to the global economic fold. In exchange, the US would support that economic reintegration.
‘That’s the trade that he’s offering,’ he said. ‘We’re going to keep on negotiating and try to make it happen,’ Vance added. ‘So I’m gonna keep on fighting to make it happen.’
Pakistan likely to host next round
Developments suggest that the next phase of talks could happen soon. In an interview with The New York Post, Trump indicated that discussions may take place in Pakistan within days, shifting away from earlier suggestions of a European venue.
He later reinforced the possibility during a phone conversation, urging a journalist to stay in Islamabad and saying ‘something could be happening over the next two days.’
Reports citing officials familiar with the matter suggest Vance will lead the upcoming negotiations. He could be accompanied by key figures such as envoy Steve Witkoff and advisor Jared Kushner, both of whom have been engaged in diplomatic outreach efforts tied to the current situation.
Debate over faith and use of force
During his address, Vance also touched on criticism from religious circles. Referring to comments by Pope Leo XIV, who said Christians are ‘never on the side of those who once wielded the sword and today drop bombs,’ Vance said he appreciated the Pope’s emphasis on peace but did not fully agree with the sentiment.
‘I like that the pope is an advocate for peace,’ he said. ‘On the other hand, how can you say that God is never on the side of those who wield the sword?’
He cited historical instances such as World War II, including the liberation of France and the rescue of those held in Nazi concentration camps, to argue that force can at times serve a moral purpose.
Brief disruption over Gaza remarks
The event saw a moment of interruption when an attendee shouted that Jesus would not support genocide. Responding to the comment, Vance turned to the situation in Gaza, describing the conditions at the start of the current administration as dire.
‘When we came in, the humanitarian situation in Gaza was an absolute catastrophe. You know, who’s the person who got a peace agreement in Gaza? Donald J. Trump,’ he said.